NORWICH – Chenango Valley Home and Apartments is ironing out some of the details before starting construction of a new addition to its facility, located on the corner of Fair and Canasawacta streets.
Building plans have been discussed for several years, according to Director Bill Beckwith. This new endeavor, he added, has been carefully planned to ensure the safety of the residents.
“Safety has been a priority for us,” Beckwith said, explaining the building process. “We are looking primarily for the benefit of the people who are living here.”
Currently, Beckwith said plans are to begin renovations by April. Contracting bids go out later this month and estimates propose the entire project could take 18 months, with anticipation that some sections of the new addition will possibly be open for residents’ use by the 2012 Christmas season.
The venture includes a new dining room that nearly doubles the capacity of the current one, more kitchen space, and close-by pantries that will allow for efficient food service. Other renovations to the 10-unit independent apartment complex on the building’s east side will provide residents a larger, brighter space in the common area.
Additional work includes installation of another elevator near the new dining area and space from the current dining area will be used to build private bathrooms for residents who now share a common bathroom. Remaining space will be converted into a reception area and two new offices. The current kitchen will be remodeled for a new activity room and one new room will take the place of Beckwith’s present office.
Landscaping around the building will result in four new entrances, two of which will gradually incline from ground level for easier accessibility. Hard surface walkways will hem the building and raised garden beds will allow safe and easy access for gardening. Finally, a circle drive off Canasawacta Street will allow easier access for incoming traffic.
Most work will be done on the building’s south side. Areas under construction wil be blocked off. Beckwith said the plans involve as little disturbance to residents as possible.
To make room for this expansion, Chenango Valley will need to cut down trees on the property, which will in turn be used for lumber in the building process. Construction crews will also level the house on 16 Canasawacta, which was purchased by Chenango Valley with the intent of expanding several years ago. Original plans were to expand on the apartments side of the building, said Beckwith, but closer evaluation of residents’ needs swayed that decision.
“We decided to change focus to look at what the people living here would benefit the most from,” said Beckwith. “Being that we don’t have to disrupt people in this process, it will be very nice ... They will actually be able to see work progress and when it’s done, I think they will feel good about the space.”